Becoming Nicole

    I cannot tell you how much I appreciate this book. A book of darkness that brings forth light. Amy Ellis Nutt perfectly encapsulates this Maine family. If you are even remotely interested in transgender issues, go pick up a copy of Becoming Nicole - you won't be disappointed. 

   When I signed up for Sandra Caron's "human sexuality" course, I was excited to learn about the stigmas and taboos around sexuality in today's society. It is week four and I have already learned more about transgender issues in these weeks than I have in all my twenty years. Nutt's book about this family from Orono will make your heart grow more than the Grinch's. I was slightly hesitant about reading this book, I admittedly was really uneducated on the topic. That all changed by the end of this riveting book. 

   When I first picked up this book, I was not exactly excited to read it. I figured, ya know, just another semi-textbook style book. But I was entirely wrong. The point of view of the narrator in this book creates a dynamic that makes you feel as though you are sitting down with the family, hearing the stories from their mouths. The detailed memories that the author presents readers is the type of detail that has you hanging on every word. 

   Another thing that readers will learn from this book, is how the entire family transforms. This is not just a book about Nicole Maines, it is about her parents and her twin brother and how they all changed with her - how education and love changed their family. My favorite person to read about in this book was Nicole's father, Wayne. At the beginning of the book, Wayne truly did not want to believe his son, Wyatt, was transgender. Often times, Wayne ignored his sons actions and tried to remind Wyatt that he was a boy, not a girl. 

  As the book progresses, so does Mr. Maines. Throughout the book multiple events threaten Nicoles happiness and often times harm the whole family. Around this time is when a change seems to be born in Wayne. When his child's happiness is on the line, Wayne begins to except the truth and grow. Knowledge creates a more loving and understanding father out of Wayne. This change that evokes from Wayne was what had me in tears numerous times. 

  Other characters who play significant roles in Nicole's transformation are her mother, Kelly, and her twin brother, Jonas. While these two did not have as much of a voice in this book, there roles do not go unnoticed. The love that flows from this duo is something you can feel running through the pages straight into your heart. 

   Everything about Becoming Nicole is magical. From the hatred received by some, to the love received by many, this book will change your views on the world around you. By reading these pages, you will learn so much more about what it means to be transgender, the struggles families face, and the beauty that comes from acceptance. I highly recommend picking up a copy of this book. Although it's not a fictional story, which we all know I love, I give this a 10/10! Go pick up a copy of Becoming Nicole at your local bookstore!